Chrysanthemum Serotinum L.
Chrysanthemum serotinum L. is a herbaceous plant native to China, Korea, Japan, and parts of Siberia. It belongs to the family of Asteraceae and is commonly known as Late-flowering chrysanthemum, Gray chrysanthemum, and Silver chrysanthemum.
Appearance
The plant grows up to a height of 100 cm, and the stems are erect, branched and covered with white cottony hairs. The leaves are alternate, simple, deeply lobed, and covered with white hairs that give them a fuzzy appearance. The leaves are green on top and greyish-white underneath. The flowers are small, measuring up to 2 cm in diameter, and are arranged in corymbose inflorescences.
Uses
The plant has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-viral properties. It has been used to treat common cold, fever, sore throat, bronchitis, and pneumonia. The plant is also used in the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach ulcers. The leaves and flowers are used to make tea, which is considered a natural remedy for various ailments. Moreover, the plant is widely used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and foliage. It is a popular plant for gardens and adds beauty to floral arrangements.
Light Requirements
Chrysanthemum serotinum L. thrives in full sunlight and needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to grow and bloom properly. Without adequate sunlight, the plant may become weak and susceptible to pests and diseases.
Temperature Requirements
Chrysanthemum serotinum L. grows best in moderate temperatures that range from 60 to 75°F (15 to 24°C). These plants can tolerate higher temperatures but do not do well in extreme heat. In cooler temperatures, chrysanthemum may begin to frost, so it is important to cover the plants at night to protect them from damage.
Soil Requirements
In terms of soil requirements, chrysanthemum prefers fertile, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Sandy or loamy soil works well, and the pH range should be between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged or poorly drained soils very well and may rot if soil conditions are consistently moist.
It is also important to mention that Chrysanthemum serotinum L. requires good air circulation and space to grow, as crowded plants can be more susceptible to diseases and pests. Regular fertilization and watering can also help to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Cultivation Methods
Chrysanthemum serotinum L. can be grown in full sun or partial shade. The plant grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. This species grows best in USDA Zones 9-11. When planting, ensure that the distance between the plants is at least 12-18 inches apart.
The best time for planting is in the spring after the last frost has passed, or in the fall at least six weeks before the first frost. Propagation can be done using cuttings, root division, and seed sowing. When planting from seeds, sow them in well-draining soil and keep them moist until germination occurs.
Watering Needs
The Chrysanthemum serotinum L. requires average watering needs once established. The plant prefers to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. During the hot summer weather, the plant may require a little more water because of the increased evaporation rate. Watering during the evening or early in the morning will help reduce water loss and allow the plants to use the moisture effectively.
Fertilization
An application of balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, every four to six weeks during the growing season will help the Chrysanthemum serotinum L. plants grow strong and healthy. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive leaf growth rather than flower production. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can be used to enrich the soil and feed the plants from time to time.
Pruning
To keep the Chrysanthemum serotinum L. plants looking tidy and promoting healthy growth, it is essential to prune them regularly. During the flowering season, remove spent blooms to encourage the plant to bloom again and remove any dead or diseased foliage and stems. Pinching back the plants' top growth in the early spring will make them bushier and promote flower production.
After the flowering season is over, cutting back the plants to about 6-8 inches will encourage them to regrow anew in the following season. Finally, before wintering the plants, remove any remaining dead or dying foliage and debris from around the plants to reduce the chances of disease and pests overwintering and reappearing in the following season.
Propagation of Chrysanthemum serotinum L.
Chrysanthemum serotinum L. can be propagated by three methods:
Seed propagation
In seed propagation, the seeds must be planted in a well-draining soil mix with a pH of 6.0 - 7.0. The ideal time to plant seeds is in the spring or fall. The seeds should be soaked overnight in water before planting. Plant the seeds at a depth of 1/4 inch and maintain a soil temperature of 70°F. It usually takes 7-10 days for the seeds to germinate. After germination, the seedlings should be moved to a bright area and kept moist. Ensure that the seedlings receive adequate sunlight and nutrients. The seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots once they have developed true leaves.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation involves taking cuttings of the plant and planting them in soil. The cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant, and the leaves on the lower half of the stem should be removed. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant the stem in well-draining soil. The ideal time to take cuttings is in the spring or fall. The cuttings should be kept moist and receive bright, indirect sunlight. It usually takes six to eight weeks for the cuttings to root and develop new growth.
Division propagation
Division propagation involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and planting them in soil. This method is suitable for mature plants that have crowded roots. To divide the plant, carefully dig it up and separate the roots by hand or using a sharp knife. Each section should have several stems and a healthy root system. The new sections should be planted immediately in well-draining soil and kept moist. Ensure they receive bright, indirect sunlight.
Diseases and Pest Management for Chrysanthemum Serotinum L.
Chrysanthemum Serotinum L. is a beautiful flowering plant that can add a splash of color to any garden or landscape. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can damage or even kill the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some ways to manage them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Chrysanthemum Serotinum L. is Powdery Mildew. This fungal disease is characterized by a white or gray powdery substance that appears on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage Powdery Mildew, it is recommended to spray the plant with a fungicide and remove any infected plant material to prevent the disease from spreading.
Another disease that can affect the plant is Leaf Spot, which is caused by a fungus or bacteria that infects the leaves of the plant. The infected leaves will have dark spots that can coalesce and cause the leaves to yellow and die. To manage Leaf Spot, it is recommended to remove any infected plant material and spray the plant with a fungicide as a preventive measure.
Pests
Chrysanthemum Serotinum L. is also susceptible to pest infestations, such as Aphids, Spider Mites, and Thrips. These pests can cause damage to the plant by sucking out its sap, which can lead to wilting, yellowing, and distorted leaves and flowers. To manage pest infestations, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the pests and their eggs.
Another pest that can affect the plant is the Chrysanthemum Lace Bug, which feeds on the sap of the plant and causes white or yellow blotches on the leaves. To manage the Chrysanthemum Lace Bug, it is recommended to spray the plant with an insecticide that is labeled for this pest.
In conclusion, while Chrysanthemum Serotinum L. is a delightful plant to grow, it is crucial to manage diseases and pest infestations. Practicing proper sanitation and using preventive measures, such as pesticides and fungicides, can help ensure the healthy growth and longevity of the plant.
